Four Cases of Myeloproliferative Disorders Associated With Down Syndrome: Distinguishing ML-DS From TAM-DS

Abstract

Down syndrome (DS) is defined by an extra copy of chromosome 21 and confers an increased susceptibility to hematological disorders. Transient abnormal myelopoiesis (TAM) and myeloid-leukemia associated with Down syndrome (ML-DS) are two conditions that need to be accurately diagnosed to provide appropriate management. Both TAM and ML-DS are characterized by proliferation of megakaryoblasts carrying a mutation in the GATA1 gene. Here, we report four cases with educational significance, highlighting typical diagnostic features that facilitate the differentiation between these two conditions, thereby assisting clinicians and medical laboratory professionals in effectively managing and monitoring these patients.